Ironwort (Sideritis syriaca), locally known as mountain tea, is a herbaceous endemic plant or shrub that thrives at high altitudes in Crete.
Ironwort has small and fluffy leaves, but its population has decreased dramatically due to overgrazing.
The Greek name of the plant, ‘malotira’, has two attributed versions. According to one, it is said to be derived from the Venetians, who purportedly introduced the herb's use to the Cretans. This version suggests that the name originates from the Italian words 'male' (disease) and 'tirare' (to drag or drive away), implying its medicinal properties. The other version posits that the name comes from the word 'mallotos,' which means woolly, likely due to the plant's fluffy leaves.
This herb is employed as a remedy for colds and respiratory ailments, serving as an immune system enhancer and aromatic infusion. Its essential oil contains 34 compounds with various beneficial properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, among others. Additionally, when combined with honey, it acts as an antitussive and is thought to promote cardiovascular health.
The flora of Crete
Greek Sage
Cretan Oregano or Cretan Marjoram
Colchicum Balansae - Balansa Colchico
Cretan Zelkova
Carob Tree (Ceratonia Siliqua)
The Cretan Date Palm
Kermes Oak (Quercus Coccifera)
Sand Lily, Sea Lily (Pancratium Maritimum)
Cretan Cyclamen
The Cretan Cephalanthera
Dittany
Phoenician Juniper and Large-Fruited Juniper
Gallipoli Rose
Natural Monuments
Lilac Wonder (Tulipa doerfleri)
The Ancient Olive Tree of Vouves
The Olive Tree of Azorias
Olive tree of Samonas
Thyme
Oregano
Camomile
Mint
Preserving the Heritage: Ancient Olive Trees of Crete
The Ancient Olive Tree of Vrysses, Amari
Bali's Ancient Olive Tree: Documented in Preservation Efforts
Gra Elia (The Old Olive Tree)
The Ancient Olive Tree of Kato Asites: Host to the 1st Olive Festival
Sitia's Ancient Olive Tree: A Record of Preservation Initiatives
Asperula Crassula
Carlina diae, Carlina of Dia
Anthemis Filicaulis, Slender-stemmed Chamomile
Dianthus Fruticosus Subsp. Sitiacus
Silene Holzmannii
Carlina Sitiensis
Bellevalia Sitiaca
Limonium Sitiacum
Viola Scorpiuroides
The Ancient Olive Tree of Kakodiki
Laurel
Rosemary
Common Basil
Honeysuckle
Oat
Chaste tree
Myrtle
Cretan Rockrose
Ophrys Sitiaca
The Ancient Olive Tree of Viannos: Unveiling a Treasured Discovery
The Ancient Olive Tree of Fourfouras
Mandrake
Androcymbium Rechingeri
Autumn Lady's-tresses
Tournefort Crocus
Orchis Sitiaca
Ancient Olive Tree in Kouroutes
Mediterranean Meadow Saffron